I want to share a deeply personal journey that profoundly altered my perspective on life, legacy, and the importance of planning for the unexpected twists and turns that your journey may bring. I also want to share my testimonial for Before I Croak (www.beforeicroak.io), an online digital lockbox specifically developed to help me preserve the legacy that I have built for my family.
Several years ago, I faced a daunting adversary: cancer. This battle tested me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. However, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, it also served as a wake-up call—a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the need to safeguard the legacy I had built for my family.
Embracing the Financial Dimension of Legacy Planning
The financial aspect of legacy planning is undeniably crucial. From ensuring financial security for your loved ones to preserving your wealth for future generations, proactive financial planning is essential.... but don't forget to securely share this information with those who need it most!
I had the 401(k) plan, 529 Education Savings Plan, Life Insurance, and some liquid cash stocked away for a “rainy day”. However, I failed to fully connect these disparate plans into a cohesive strategy. I also did not consider how best to share these “best-laid plans” with my wife.
I was not alone in my oversight.
According to a study by CNBC, 67% of Americans do not have a will or estate plan in place. This statistic underscores the urgency of addressing financial matters before it's too late. Read more here (https://www.cnbc.com/2022/04/11/67percent-of-americans-have-no-estate-plan-heres-how-to-get-started-on-one.html )
It looks like I was not alone in my procrastination! But hey, better late than never, right?
I found a local estate planner and had him generate the necessary documentation. I then subscribed to Before I Croak which allowed me to store an encrypted version of this documentation. I then configured the Before I Croak system to share this important document with my wife in the event of my demise. This system calls these important people "Croakstodians" which is a funny way to refer to its version of custodians.
Navigating the Legal Landscape of Legacy Protection
Legal considerations play a pivotal role in legacy planning, ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and minimizing potential conflicts among heirs.
A comprehensive estate plan, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, can provide invaluable peace of mind during life's most challenging moments. The American Bar Association offers insightful resources on estate planning fundamentals. Check it out here (https://www.americanbar.org/groups/real_property_trust_estate/resources/estate_planning/ )
Legal jargon can be intimidating, but Before I Croak helped break it down like a fraction! Before I Croak used a series of questions, targeted prompts, and a completion dashboard that ensured I provided the correct information.
Understanding the Emotional Significance of Legacy Preservation
Beyond financial and legal considerations, the emotional dimension of legacy preservation cannot be overstated. Your legacy encompasses not only your material possessions but also your values, memories, and aspirations.
In my journey, I realized the profound comfort of knowing that my legacy would endure long after I was gone. It's about leaving behind a lasting imprint—a testament to the love, dedication, and resilience that define us as individuals and families.
One of my favorite features of Before I Croak is the CroaKeeper. This functionality allowed me to upload videos, images, stories, notes, or any other messages for my family once I had slipped this mortal coil.
As you embark on your legacy planning journey, consider the emotional impact of your decisions. After all, it’s not just about protecting assets; it’s about cherishing the intangible treasures that make life truly meaningful.
Introducing “Before I Croak”: A Solution for Legacy Security
In my quest to secure my family’s legacy, I was fortunate to be part of the team that developed this remarkable product that revolutionized the way I approach legacy planning. Before I Croak was a perfect solution to the problem that I had.
With Before I Croak, I could securely store and share my most cherished memories, documents, and wishes with my appointed family members. From financial records to heartfelt letters, this innovative platform ensures that my legacy lives on, long after I am gone.
I also appreciated the light-hearted approach that Before I Croak takes. Yes, Finnegan the Frog can be a little corny, but I appreciated the sardonic, yet helpful guidance that he provides. Planning for death can be a difficult process.
Finally, a solution that lets me plan for the future without taking myself too seriously!
In conclusion, my journey with cancer taught me invaluable lessons about the importance of protecting and preserving the legacy we leave behind. By addressing the financial, legal, and emotional dimensions of legacy planning, we can ensure that our loved ones inherit not only our wealth but also our wisdom, values, and enduring love.
As you embark on your legacy planning journey, remember that your legacy is your gift to the future. Make it count! ____________________________________ Jason Battles is a seasoned technical thought leader, husband, and father. As a chief technology officer, he blends innovation with practicality, steering organizations toward cutting-edge solutions. Hailing from the heart of Oklahoma, this proud Okie brings a unique blend of southern practicality and technical prowess to the table. When not shaping the future of technology, you’ll find him working on his terrible golf game, crafting some new AI algorithm, and pondering the next big breakthrough. Connect with Jason on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrbattles/ ) or follow him on Twitter: @jrbat21